Leeds United transfer news as Jose Cifuentes move now on the cards at Elland Road
Leeds United are one of several sides interested in signing Ecuador international Jose Cifuentes, according to Tom Bogert.
The Los Angeles FC midfielder is out of contract with the MLS outfit at the end of 2023, with the Whites, Rangers and Espanyol all interested in raiding the club for an “undervalued” summer transfer.
Cifuentes, 24, has gained 13 caps for his country and was a part of the Ecuador squad who were knocked out in the group stages of the Qatar World Cup.
Taking to Twitter (April 18), MLS reporter Bogert shared that the attack-minded midfielder would either be available for a cheap fee this summer or on a free transfer in the 2023/24 winter window.
“Have heard Leeds United, Rangers and Espanyol as potential options for LAFC & Ecuador international midfielder Jose Cifuentes,” he wrote.
“I’d imagine a lot of teams in Europe are interested with his contract expiring at the end of 2023. Either an undervalued summer transfer or free in the winter.”
Early moves
Although Leeds United already possess Tyler Adams, Marc Roca and Weston McKennie within their midfield ranks, the latter may not be staying at Leeds beyond the end of the season.
Despite showing glimpses of promise since sealing his £30million from Juventus – which has an option to buy at the end of the season – McKennie isn’t necessarily going to be plying his trade at Elland Road next season.
If this is the case, it wouldn’t be a bad move for Javi Gracia’s side to explore further options in the summer transfer window, especially at the cut price that Cifuentes could be available at.
Cifuentes is more comfortable in the advanced position of three midfielders, so he could add further competition to Brenden Aaronson if he is playing there or come in as a direct replacement for McKennie.
Due to his expiring contract, there is likely to be a host of clubs interested in the Ecuador international’s services, and any hope Leeds holds will hinge on the club maintaining their Premier League status this season.
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